Universal Orlando Resort is ready to turn up the music, toss the beads and bring the spirit of Carnaval back to Universal Studios Florida. Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval officially kicks off Saturday, February 7 and runs daily through April 4, transforming the park into a colorful celebration inspired by New Orleans and festivities from around the world.
If you’ve never experienced Mardi Gras at Universal, this is one of those seasonal events that truly feels included with your park day. A dazzling parade, live concerts on select nights, international food booths, a brand-new Tribute Store and an adorable new character make this a must-do spring tradition.
A Parade Packed with Beads and Bayou Energy
The nightly Mardi Gras parade is the heart of the celebration. This year features twelve beautifully hand-crafted floats inspired by New Orleans culture, from food and music to the bayou itself. Street performers, live music and handfuls of beads create an electric atmosphere as the parade winds through Universal Studios Florida.
For those wanting something extra, the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience lets guests actually ride on a float during the parade and toss beads into the crowd. It also includes a savory three-course meal, making it a great way to level up the night.
Concerts on Select Nights at Music Plaza Stage
Mardi Gras concerts are included with park admission, and this year’s lineup brings a wide range of genres to the Music Plaza Stage. From EDM to pop to rock, there’s something for everyone. The season opens with Kaskade on February 7, with other big names performing throughout the event, including Bebe Rexha, Zedd and The All-American Rejects.
Here is the full 2026 concert lineup for easy copy and paste:
| Date | Headliner |
|---|---|
| February 7 | Kaskade |
| February 14 | Portugal. The Man |
| February 15 | Ivy Queen |
| February 21 | Joey Fatone & AJ McLean |
| February 28 | RuPaul (DJ Set) |
| March 7 | Shaggy |
| March 13 | Tyler Hubbard |
| March 14 | Bebe Rexha |
| March 15 | Zedd |
| March 21 | Barenaked Ladies |
| March 28 | The All-American Rejects |
International Flavors of Carnaval
Foodies will want to arrive hungry. This year features more than 40 sampler-sized items inspired by Carnaval celebrations from 12 different countries along with classic New Orleans favorites.
Highlights include Baked Cajun Mac & Cheese and fluffy Beignets from New Orleans, Verlasso Salmon from Chile, a Ham, Brie and Berry crepe from France, Vienna-Style Pork Schnitzel from Austria and Pinchos de Lechon from Puerto Rico.
The Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card is one of the best ways to save. Guests can purchase a $75 value card for $65. Annual and Seasonal Passholders can grab an exclusive $150 card for $120, making it easier to snack around the world.
Meet Prince Gator
For the first time ever, guests can meet Prince Gator, the adorable son of the iconic King Gator float. This all-new walkaround character greets guests at The Wave outside of Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show. It’s a fun addition for families and a great photo opportunity that ties directly into the parade’s Mardi Gras royalty theme.
The All-New Mardi Gras Tribute Store
The Tribute Store in the Hollywood area is once again a can’t-miss stop. This year’s theme transports guests through elaborately designed rooms inspired by the neon glow of Baron Tonton’s Roadhouse, the winding boroughs of New Orleans and the vibrant energy of the French Quarter.
Expect immersive details, bold colors and plenty of photo spots. Merchandise is bigger and brighter than ever, including Baron Tonton shoulder pals, themed headbands, neon-infused apparel and playful beignet keychains and plush keepsakes.
In our full Tribute Store walkthrough, we explore each themed room, highlight the most creative design elements and take a close look at this year’s exclusive merchandise collection. If you love themed retail experiences at Universal, this one continues the tradition of storytelling through immersive shopping.
Keep the Party Going at CityWalk and the Hotels
The celebration doesn’t stop at the park gates. Over at Universal CityWalk, guests can enjoy the Mardi Gras After Party at Pat O’Brien’s on select Fridays and Saturdays, featuring specialty drinks, DJs, stilt walkers and live entertainment. The Cursed Coconut Club also returns with a new seasonal theme, exclusive beverages and live entertainment on select nights.
Across all 11 Universal hotels, Mardi Gras-inspired food and drink offerings add even more flavor to your stay. From Bourbon Street Beignets at Hard Rock Hotel to Korean Cajun Jambalaya at Universal Aventura Hotel and Voodoo Street Fries at Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, the celebration carries throughout the resort. Hotel guests also benefit from Early Park Admission and complimentary transportation.
Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando truly feels like spring in Central Florida. Whether you’re there for the parade, the concerts, the food booths or just to catch beads in the air, this is one seasonal event that keeps guests coming back year after year.